Quick and Inexpensive Meal: Semi-homemade pizza baguette

Photo courtesy of Food Explorer RD

I have some patients who claim they are "allergic" to their kitchens. They claim that having a kitchen in their home or apartment is a wasted space that could've been a closet! 

I believe we all have the ability to tackle a cooking adventure or two in the kitchen. The key is to face your fear of the kitchen and plan ahead of time. This involves checking out some quick and simple menus, whether online or via cookbook. Then, once you've gathered some recipes to explore, check to see if you have the kitchen tools or ingredients necessary for successfully completing the recipe. 

Here is a quick and simple recipe for you to try at home. 

Semi-homemade pizza baguette 

Ingredients 

1/2 store-bought baguette of your choice. 

1/2 cup low sodium tomato sauce

4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

3-4 garlic cloves, chopped 

1-2 tablespoon olive oil

Dash of black ground pepper 

1 whole tomato

Methods

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F for 10 minutes. Take 1/2 baguette, sliced, and place on cookie sheet. Spread evenly the olive oil, black pepper, chopped garlic, tomato sauce, sliced tomatoes, and sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the baguette. Place filled baguette into oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Remove from oven. Allow to cool slightly and serve. Slice in half or in thirds and enjoy. Save your leftovers for your next meal. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize this basic, quick, and inexpensive pizza baguette. Here are some other delicious and nutrient-rich toppings to add: mushrooms, bell peppers (any color), spinach, arugula, broccoli, asparagus, butternut squash, onions, pineapple, or roasted eggplant. 

Remember to fill it with vegetables or fruits to increase fiber and other health-promoting nutrients! 

The blog content and information provided by Food Explorer RD is provided for informational purposes only. Such information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease or to provide medical advice, nor is it intended to replace a relationship with a health care provider.